The predictions for the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16: matchday 10/03

The knockout phase of the UEFA Champions League enters a decisive stage. With 16 teams still in the race, the competition is beginning to profile the candidates who dream of reaching the final in Budapest.

This article was originally published in SI FC

The first first leg matches promise strong emotions: from a Liverpool that is trying to recover to a Bayern Munich that arrives with the aura of a candidate, to a Barcelona that will have to overcome a complicated visit in England.

Galatasaray vs. Liverpool

Start time: 1:45 p.m. USA, 12:45 p.m. MEX, 6:45 p.m. ESP

The Turkish champion Galatasaray welcomes Liverpool FC to RAMS Park, a stadium where the English team was never able to win.

The team led by Arne Slot arrives with some doubts despite having improved its performance in recent weeks. His irregular defense of the title in the Premier League generated criticism among fans, who are waiting for a reaction in Europe.

On the other hand, the Turkish team returned to the round of 16 for the first time since the 2013-14 season after eliminating Juventus in the playoff. With the support of his public, he will seek to take advantage of the moment to complicate things for the English.

Prediction: Galatasaray 3–1 Liverpool

Atalanta vs. Bayern Munich

Start time: 16:00 USA, 15:00 MEX, 21:00 ESP

Atalanta BC staged one of the most impressive comebacks of the previous round by overturning a 0-2 deficit against Borussia Dortmund and reaching the top 16.

However, now the challenge is much greater: opposite will be the powerful Bayern Munich, which is going through a great season under the leadership of Vincent Kompany.

The German giant dominated the league phase of the tournament and also comfortably leads the Bundesliga, which places it as one of the main contenders for the European title.

Prediction: Atalanta 0–2 Bayern Munich

Atlético de Madrid vs. Tottenham Hotspur

Start time: 16:00 USA, 15:00 MEX, 21:00 ESP

The reality of Tottenham Hotspur in England is worrying. The team is going through a difficult season in the Premier League and is looking in Europe for a way to change its image.

But the challenge will be enormous: he will visit Diego Simeone’s Atlético de Madrid at the Metropolitan Stadium, a always complex setting for rivals.

The Madrid team, who this season already managed to win against FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF, start as favorites to take the first advantage.

Prediction: Atlético de Madrid 3-0 Tottenham

Newcastle United contra Barcelona

Start time: 16:00 USA, 15:00 MEX, 21:00 ESP

The cross between Newcastle United and FC Barcelona appears to be one of the most balanced in the series.

The English team is becoming very strong at St James’ Park, driven by the fervor of its fans, while the team led by Hansi Flick is betting on its attacking football.

The Catalans have two of the great young figures in world football, Lamine Yamal and Pedri, keys to managing the pace of the match. Even so, the English team can be very dangerous at home.

Prediction: Newcastle 1–2 Barcelona

Forecasts for the day 03/10

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